Royal Society of Arts names new CEO

DAVID JOSEPH has been appointed the new CEO of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), succeeding ANDY HALDANE, who steps down after four years. He will take up the post in September.

Joseph began his career in advertising before moving into music, where he worked in artist development and label management. He became chair and CEO at Universal Music UK in 2008, holding the role for 17 years.

In 2019, he introduced Universal’s Creative Differences initiative, which produced the first industry handbook on embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.

A founding board member of Julie’s Bicycle, Joseph is the chair of the Grenfell Foundation and has also served on the National Council of Arts Council England for eight years, as well as chairing several BRIT Award shows.

“David’s commitment to effecting social change, his compassion and his commitment to nurturing people is exemplary,” said LOYD GROSSMAN, chair of the RSA.

“We are thrilled that David will join us in the autumn, knowing that he will foster a collaborative and caring culture that speaks to our fellows, partners, staff teams and the wider world. These qualities make David superbly placed to lead the RSA into its next vital phase, and we are thrilled to have him on board.”

Joseph added: “The RSA has a remarkable heritage and untapped potential. At a time when fresh thinking and collective action are urgently needed across the globe, the RSA is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change – uniting its rich tradition of arts, creativity and policy influence with the energy of its global Fellowship to spark ideas that shape society.”